Essential Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia 2 Weeks

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, known for its mix of historic districts and modern urban life. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.

In the evening, optional food tours are available for guests interested in exploring local cuisine (additional cost).

Begin the day exploring Hanoi’s cultural and historical landmarks, where religious heritage, colonial history, and local daily life are closely connected.

Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small island in West Lake. It is one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Hanoi and features traditional architecture in a quiet lakeside setting.

Continue to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important historical site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh. The surrounding complex provides insight into Vietnam’s modern political history and national identity.

Nearby, visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist structure built in the shape of a lotus flower. The site is known for its distinctive architecture and cultural significance.

Proceed to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. The site includes courtyards, traditional architecture, and stone stelae that reflect the country’s long academic tradition.

After lunch at a local restaurant, take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, a central landmark in Hanoi. The lake area is a common gathering place for locals and offers a calm environment in the city centre.

End the day at Dong Xuan Market, the largest indoor market in Hanoi. The market offers a wide range of local products, textiles, and food stalls, reflecting everyday urban life in the Old Quarter.

Return to the hotel after the visit.

Morning

After breakfast at the hotel, depart Hanoi and travel to Ninh Binh province. The route passes through rural landscapes, limestone formations, and agricultural areas. Ninh Binh is known for its karst scenery and cultural heritage sites.

Visit Hoa Lu, the former political centre of Vietnam in the 10th century. The site includes restored temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties, located within a mountainous landscape.

Continue to explore the area’s traditional architecture and stone carvings that reflect early Vietnamese craftsmanship and historical development.

Afternoon

Take a traditional sampan boat trip along the Ngo Dong River. The route passes rice fields and limestone mountains, offering a slow-paced view of the natural landscape.

Continue through the Tam Coc, which includes three natural grottoes formed within the limestone formations. The boat journey passes through low-lit cave sections and open river stretches.

After the boat trip, enjoy a cycling route through the surrounding countryside. The path passes local villages, farmland, and open fields at a relaxed pace.

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a historic temple complex built into a mountainside. The site consists of multiple levels connected by stone steps and offers views over the surrounding valley.

Return to the hotel in Hanoi after the excursion.

Morning

Around 09:00 - 11:30, your journey begins with a smooth 2.5-hour transfer from the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the coastal gateway of Lan Ha Bay, taking the modern highway that cuts through verdant northern landscapes.

By late morning, arrive at the port where your cruise adventure begins, offering a welcome drink, cold towel, and a warm introduction to the majestic seascape that awaits.

Step aboard a luxurious Lan Ha Bay cruise and take a moment to breathe in the salty sea air as the ship slowly pulls away from the harbor. After a welcome beverage, a safety briefing and check-in, settle into your cabin or lounge on the sun deck while enjoying panoramic views of the bay.

A sumptuous lunch awaits in the dining room, featuring freshly caught seafood and a blend of Vietnamese and Western cuisine - flavors that mirror the diversity and richness of the region.

As the cruise glides through the jade-green waters, you’ll pass by captivating sights such as the Da Chong Islet, home to a century-old French lighthouse that stands resiliently on a rocky outcrop. The ship continues its journey past the untouched beauty of Gia Luan, Coc Ngoi Islet, and Thoi Quyt, where limestone cliffs rise from the sea like ancient guardians of this hidden world.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, get ready to discover the mysterious beauty of Dark & Bright Cave. Choose to paddle through these tranquil grottoes by kayak or board a rustic bamboo boat guided by local rowers. The caves open up to peaceful lagoons surrounded by jungle-cloaked cliffs, creating a dreamy scene that feels both otherworldly and intimate.

Depending on the cruise route, you may also explore the Tung Sau Pearl Farm, where pearls are cultivated using a unique combination of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship and advanced Japanese techniques. Here, you’ll learn about the delicate art of pearl farming and witness the shimmering results firsthand.

After an active day of discovery and swimming in Lan Ha Bay’s emerald waters, the cruise drops anchor at the tranquil Tra Bau area, far from the crowds of more touristic spots. As the sun begins to set, join a lively sunset party onboard with complimentary drinks or take part in an engaging cooking demonstration, where local chefs unveil the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.

As night falls over the bay, a refined dinner is served in the ambient glow of the dining room, with flavors that evoke both the sea and the land. Afterward, unwind under a canopy of stars - try your luck at squid fishing, enjoy a quiet nigh movie, or simply retreat to your cabin for a restful sleep, lulled by the gentle rhythm of the waves.

NOTE:

• There is only English-speaking guide on cruise
• The itinerary may vary depending on the cruise you book.

At 06:00, wake up and greet the day with the tranquil symphony of nature as the cruise gently rocks in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay.

At dawn, the top deck offers a sublime view of the sunrise, painting the limestone peaks and mirror-like sea with hues of gold and coral. Breathe in the crisp, salty air as you join an energizing Tai Chi session, a graceful way to awaken your body and mind amidst one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes.

Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast with warm coffee or tea, letting the serene surroundings ease you into the morning. The cruise then sets course for the heart of Cat Ba Island, where you'll venture into Trung Trang Valley, a hidden gem nestled in the core of Cat Ba National Park.

Surrounded by the ancient Kim Giao Forest, this lush valley reveals a mystical world of rich biodiversity, cave systems, and towering karst formations - an immersive experience in one of Vietnam’s most pristine natural reserves.

Once back onboard, it’s time to pack and check out while savoring a relaxing brunch served as the boat gently glides toward the pier. Before you disembark, join the crew in a peaceful Vietnamese Tea Ceremony, a cultural ritual that invites you to pause and appreciate the subtle elegance of Vietnamese traditions and hospitality.

The cruise docks at the harbor, and with one last look at the emerald waters, you’ll say goodbye to the bay and begin your journey back to Hanoi. As the scenery transitions from coastal calm to urban energy, you’ll arrive in the capital around 16:00, marking the end of your unforgettable coastal retreat.

After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to the airport for a flight to Siem Reap. The morning is free at leisure in Hanoi before departure.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

The remainder of the day is free at leisure. You may choose to explore the surrounding streets of Siem Reap independently, where local markets, small cafes, and colonial-era buildings are located within the town centre.

Begin the day with a visit to the Angkor Thom complex, entering through the South Gate. The gateway features large stone figures on both sides of the road, representing a significant example of Khmer architectural design and symbolism.

Continue to Bayon Temple, located at the centre of Angkor Thom. The temple is known for its stone towers featuring carved faces and a network of corridors, galleries, and bas-reliefs depicting historical and daily life scenes from the Khmer Empire.

Proceed to the Elephant Terrace, a long platform used in the past for royal ceremonies and public events. The site includes detailed carvings of elephants and other traditional motifs along its structure.

Visit Ta Prohm Temple, a historical site where stone structures are partially covered by tree roots and vegetation. The temple illustrates the interaction between natural growth and ancient architecture within the Angkor complex.

Continue to Angkor Wat, a large temple complex and one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Cambodia. The structure is known for its symmetrical layout, central towers, and surrounding moat. The site features detailed carvings and extensive architectural design.

Return to the hotel in Siem Reap after the visit.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free at leisure in Siem Reap. You may choose to relax at the hotel or explore the town independently.

For guests interested in further exploration, an optional full-day tour is available.

Optional Tour:

Banteay Srey & Kbal Spean full-day tour (additional cost)

(Kbal Spean - Pre Rup - East Mebon - Ta Som - Preah Khan)

After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to the airport for a flight to Bangkok. The morning is free at leisure in Siem Reap before departure.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

The remainder of the day is free at leisure. You may choose to rest at the hotel or explore the surrounding area independently, depending on arrival time.

Begin the day with a visit to Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), located in the Chinatown area. The temple houses a large solid gold Buddha statue, which is an important religious and historical artefact in Bangkok.

Continue to Wat Pho, one of the city’s oldest temple complexes. The site is known for the Reclining Buddha statue and features a range of courtyards, pagodas, and traditional architectural details.

Proceed to the Grand Palace, a former royal residence and one of Thailand’s most significant cultural landmarks. The site includes multiple buildings that reflect traditional Thai architecture and royal heritage.

Within the same complex, visit Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), an important religious site in Thailand. The temple is recognised for its sacred Buddha image and detailed decorative design.

Enjoy a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River. The route passes riverside temples, residential areas, and local piers, offering a view of Bangkok from the water. 

Return to the hotel after the tour. 

In the morning, an optional excursion is available before departure. The tour includes visits to two well-known markets located outside Bangkok.

Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where local vendors trade goods from boats along the canal. The area includes waterways, wooden houses, and market activity along the river.

Continue to Mae Klong Railway Market, a local market built along an active railway line. Vendors adjust their stalls when trains pass through the area before resuming normal operations.

After the tour, return to the hotel in Bangkok to collect luggage and transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Phuket.

Upon arrival in Phuket, transfer to the hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free at leisure.

The day is free at leisure in Phuket. You may choose to relax at the hotel or spend time at the beach. Spa services and local shopping are also available in the surrounding area.

For guests interested in a full-day island excursion, our optional tour is available at an additional cost.

Optional tour

Phi Phi Island by Speedboat Full Day Tour - from US$106/pax

(Koh Phi Phi – Phi Phi Leh – Rang Yai Island)

The day is free at leisure in Phuket. You may choose to relax at the beach or spend time exploring the island independently.

For guests interested in a guided excursion, an optional full-day speedboat tour is available at an additional cost.

Optional tour

Phang Nga Bay Bond & Beyond by Speedboat - from US$102/pax

(Phang Nga Bay - James Bond Island – Koh Panyee Floating Village)

The final day is free at leisure in Phuket until transfer to the airport for departure. You may choose to relax at the hotel, take a short walk nearby, or spend time at the beach, depending on your flight schedule.

At the appropriate time, transfer to Phuket International Airport for your onward flight.